From the Research
Taking sertraline (Zoloft) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) together is generally not recommended due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially serious drug interaction. These medications both increase serotonin levels in the brain and taking them simultaneously can lead to excessive serotonin accumulation. This combination may cause symptoms ranging from mild (agitation, tremor, diarrhea, increased heart rate) to severe (high fever, seizures, irregular heartbeat, unconsciousness) 1. If you're currently taking one of these medications and your doctor is considering adding the other, they would typically recommend discontinuing the first medication before starting the second, with an appropriate washout period between them. For sertraline, this washout period is usually about 1-2 weeks, while duloxetine typically requires 5-7 days 2. Any transition between these medications should only occur under close medical supervision. Some key points to consider when taking these medications include:
- The risk of serotonin syndrome is higher when combining sertraline and duloxetine, and this risk can be mitigated by close medical supervision and careful monitoring of symptoms 2.
- Alternative treatment options are available for patients who are not responding to their current medication, and these options should be discussed with a healthcare provider rather than combining medications on their own 1.
- The efficacy and safety of sertraline and duloxetine have been established in various studies, but the risk of serotonin syndrome remains a concern when combining these medications 3, 4. If you're experiencing depression or anxiety symptoms that aren't responding to your current medication, discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider rather than combining these medications on your own.